In most people's morning ritual, a sip of coffee provides a small sense of satisfaction - a quiet moment of solace before the day begins. For many, this comfort is sweetened with a generous spoonful of sugar. However, as we prioritize our health more and more, this seemingly harmless habit should be reconsidered.
What if the key to a healthier lifestyle - and maybe even a more refined coffee experience - lies in saying goodbye to that spoonful of sugar?
Here's why you should stop adding sugar to your coffee, and how that simple change can improve not only your health, but your appreciation for the rich, nuanced flavors of your coffee that you've been covering up with sweetness.
Experts warn that regular consumption of overly sweet coffee and various sugary drinks can lead to several health problems, including an increased risk of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, skin problems, sleep disorders, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and kidney disease.
Try to reduce the consumption of coffee with sugar or at least consume it in moderation. But why is regular coffee without sugar a better choice?
1. It reduces the risk of diabetes
Regular coffee can help reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes, especially in women. Study from the Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health found that coffee consumption reduced the risk by 8 percent. People with diabetes should, however, consult a doctor before consuming coffee.
2. Reduces the risk of heart disease
Cardiovascular diseases are still the leading cause of death in the world. Surprisingly, moderate coffee consumption can help reduce this risk. Study published in the Ochsner Journal suggested that regular coffee could be good for the heart. But remember, this benefit diminishes with added sugar, he says Jutarnji list.
3. Improves memory
Are you forgetful? Coffee could help, according to Research from Johns Hopkins University. They say that regular coffee can improve memory, but sugar reduces those chances.
4. It helps in losing weight
If you're trying to lose a few pounds, introduce black coffee to your menu. According to the journal Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition, caffeine boosts metabolism and boosts thermogenesis, helping you burn more calories.
5. Protects the liver
A study in the Journal of Hepatology showed that coffee consumption can reduce liver problems.
Additionally, a caffeine byproduct, paraxanthine, inhibits tissue scarring, potentially preventing a variety of liver diseases, including hepatitis C, cirrhosis and liver cancer, as reported in Frontiers in Pharmacology.
6. Prevents caries
Regular coffee can also be good for your teeth. Journal of Conservative Dentistry found that coffee without additives reduces the risk of tooth decay by lowering bacteria in the mouth.
7. Regulates blood pressure
Managing high blood pressure is essential for heart health. Study in the journal Nutrients suggests that moderate coffee consumption can help lower blood pressure. However, excessive consumption can have the opposite effect, so moderation is key.
Calories in coffee
The number of calories in your coffee depends largely on its ingredients. High-calorie options like frappuccinos and lattes are loaded with milk, whipped cream and sugar. In contrast, black coffee contains only 2 to 12 calories per cup, making it a healthier choice in every sense.
Although regular coffee has many benefits, it is not for everyone. For people with sensitive stomachs or digestive problems, it can make symptoms worse, causing bloating, constipation, gas and diarrhea.
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